Climactic Closure

Description

When telling a story, build multiple parallel storylines and sub-plots, each
of which adds to the excitement. Complete some of these along the way to keep
the pleasure sustained, but leave many to be resolve right at the end of the
story.

Story plot items that may resolve at the end include:

Defeating the villain

Winning a competition or battle

Resolving doubts about the hero's character

Winning the heart of a desired partner

Finding something which was lost

A successful event, such a dance or party

Surviving cataclysms such as earthquakes and storms

Example

In a fantasy story, the hero has a romantic interest in a
young woman, is untried in serious combat and must eventually face a monster
which is threatening the local population. In the final chapter, the hero
defeats the monster, saves the people and wins the affection of the fair maiden.

In a political thriller, the protagonist candidate is
running for election against a villainous character who has used all kinds of
devices to get votes and threaten other candidates. The final scenes include
computer problems, uncertain electorate, unhappy partners, and more, all of
which are resolved in the climactic electoral victory.

Discussion

Tension and
closure is a fundamental
motivative pattern that is at the heart of all stories. We gasp at the tensions
and desperately seek the closure of resolution. By opening many tensive plots,
the overall tension escalate further and further, keeping us on the edge of our
seats. Each small closure creates a sigh of satisfaction. By bringing many
closures together, the satisfaction and pleasure is ecstatic. In this way,
storytellers leave their audiences astounded and delighted as the story ends.
And of course wanting more stories.

This principle of climactic closure can also be used in other changing-minds
situations, where multiple closures can have a useful
amplification effect.